India Achieves Criticality in Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam
India's Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) has achieved its first controlled nuclear chain reaction, a major milestone for the country's civil nuclear program and energy independence.
Key Points
- India's PFBR achieved its first controlled nuclear chain reaction
- PM Modi called it a decisive step toward harnessing thorium reserves
- Nuclear capacity target: 100 gigawatts by 2047
- Brings India closer to nuclear fuel self-reliance
Full Details
India has successfully achieved criticality in its domestically designed Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, marking the first controlled nuclear chain reaction in a reactor of this kind. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed this as a defining step in India's civil nuclear journey, advancing the second stage of the nuclear program aimed at harnessing the country's vast thorium reserves. This achievement brings India closer to nuclear fuel self-reliance and supports ambitious plans to expand nuclear power capacity from the current 8 gigawatts to 100 gigawatts by 2047. The PFBR is a key component of India's three-stage nuclear program, designed to breed fissile material from abundant thorium, reducing dependence on imported uranium. This milestone strengthens India's strategic research in advanced nuclear technology and positions it as a leader in sustainable energy innovation.
Why It Matters
This achievement could transform India's energy landscape, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and imported uranium while positioning the country as a global leader in advanced nuclear technology.
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